Canucks Could Land Star From Division Rival in Free Agency
The Vancouver Canucks only missed the playoffs by a few games this year, and they now enter the offseason looking for some answers. Just two seasons ago, the Canucks were one of the better teams across the NHL, so something will need to change this summer.
Vancouver isn't too far off from being back in contender status, but the roster does need some upgrades. One option for the Canucks could be to address the center position.
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The Canucks struggled throughout the year with the position, and may be in line to make a big move this summer. There will be a few quality players available on the open market this offseason, and Vancouver could look to strike.
One name is Mason McTavish from the Anaheim Ducks, and NHL writer Joe Yerdon of Bleacher Report has linked the two together.
"It would be a massive long shot for the Anaheim Ducks to not bring back Mason McTavish, but if there were a contract impasse, Vancouver should be ready to pounce on him in a heartbeat. McTavish is an outstanding scorer and plays the game decisively in all areas. He's the kind of player every team would be lining up out the door to talk to if he were available."
Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish (23) and Calgary Flames center Mikael Backlund (11) face off for the puck during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome.Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
McTavish is likely to stay with the Ducks, but Anaheim has been a little stingy with contracts over the years. If the two can't agree on terms, it could open the door for a team like Vancouver to swoop in.
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The former No. 3 pick in the 2021 NHL draft scored 22 goals and 30 assists for Anaheim. Additionally, stealing a player like McTavish from a division rival could be a strong move for the Canucks.
Vancouver has a lot of work to do this offseason, with getting back to the postseason being the main goal for the front office.
Related: Maple Leafs Star Linked With Red Wings Heading Into Free Agency
Related: Why Maple Leafs May Need to Let John Tavares Leave
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